What is Launchpad Academy?
Are you a hustling entrepreneur dreaming of running your own business? Are you a community leader, passionate to make a positive impact for people and the planet? Are you obsessed with cutting-edge technology and curios how to apply it to the real world? Or do you just simply have a funky, creative project that guarantees to wow everyone?
Do you think your ideas worth $10,000? There's only one way to find out: Join Launchpad Academy, a three-month long incubator program for FREE (only available for currently enrolled students at Murdoch University).
At Launchpad we believe dreams do come true if you work hard enough and have access to the right support. That's why LP Academy provides you with masterclasses and mentorships from top industry experts in startup, business, tech, and leadership. We also connect participants to a cohort of highly motivated and ambitious individuals, and cultivate valuable, life-long professional networks. But wait, there's more: We will cherry-pick the creme-de-la-creme of 6-8 finalists for a pitching competition called PITCHFEST - where you have a once-in-a-life-time opportunity to pitch in front of over 100 guests from startup & investor community and win a grand prize of $10,000.
What are you waiting for? It's time to challenge yourself, let your entrepreneurial spirit runs free and shape the world how YOU want it!
How much time will the Academy take?
This is up to you. The Academy Program has around 40 hours of commitment over Semester two (or more, depending on you). You will need to commit to attending the in-person sessions, completing the online modules and working with your team and mentor to develop your ideas.
Dates for workshops are as follows:
| Name of workshop | Date & Time | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Academy Bootcamp with Andy Lamb | 9AM-5PM, 27-28th July | With a high-profile portfolio in engaging both public and private sectors in innovative and design thinking, immersive 2 days with charismatic Andy will surely change your perception and approach to complex problem-solving. |
| 4 Mentor Clinics with TBA industry experts | 9AM-1PM, 9 & 25 Aug, 9 & 20 Sep | Exchanging wisdoms and receiving feedbacks for your pitch/ideas with business-savvy startup founders and consultants from diverse industries: finance, digital marketing, retail, and tech. |
Students will also be required to book a minimum of 2 x 1-1 appointments with Entrepreneur – in Residence Jeremy Chetty throughout the semester (flexible times online and in person).
Registrations are open until Sunday 9th July. Short online interviews will be arranged on application. If you are looking to apply for MSP201 you will also need to apply through the MSP201 registration process.
Pitchfest 2023
As the final chapter of Launchpad Academy, a maximum of 10 finalists with the most exceptional ideas will be carefully selected from the Academy cohort to present their 3-minute pitch in the quest of the grand prize and priceless exposure to over 100 guests from startup and investor community. In addition to the pitching, the event will also have a panel discussions with trail-blazing and purpose-driven entrepreneurs and a special visual arts exhibition.
Pitchfest applications will open in August and close on September 15th. Applications will be a 3-minute pitch video submission which can be recorded via zoom, a format will be provided.
Pitchfest workshops will take place in October for finalists:
| Name of workshop | Date & Time | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Pitch Workshop with Shil Shanghavi | 9AM-12.30PM, 27th Sep | As an expert in public speaking who has worked with TEDx speakers, Shil has the best tips to charm your audience, from structuring an engaging speech to confident body posture and combating anxiety on stage. |
| 2 Pitch Practice sessions | 9AM-12PM, 11 & 13 Oct | Your last chance to practice in front of your cohort and the Launchpad team before the final pitching competition |
| Pitchfest | 5-9PM, 19 Oct | Main event takes place |
Want to find out more?
If you would like to learn more about events and facilities at Launchpad or how you can work with us, contact us at launchpad@murdoch.edu.au, or visit us at 350.3.003.
